gen paul (1895-1975)
Gen (Eugène) Paul was a French painter and engraver.
Paul Sérusier was a French Post-Impressionist painter and theorist, notable for his significant contributions to the art movement known as the Nabis. Born in Paris on November 9, 1864, Sérusier's work is characterized by its expressive use of color and pattern, inspired by the techniques of Paul Gauguin. He is best known for his exploration of color, sensation, and abstraction, particularly evident in works like "Le Talisman, the Aven River at the Bois d'Amour" (1888). This painting marks a departure from the Impressionists' more faithful representation of observed reality, focusing instead on translating sensations onto the canvas with vibrant brushstrokes and an emphasis on emotional expression over visual accuracy.
Sérusier's paintings often feature the landscapes and people of Brittany, notable for their contemplative mood achieved through firm contours and blocks of unmodulated color. His style evolved under the influence of Synthetism and Cloisonnism, favoring flattened forms and large swathes of color, as seen in "Farmhouse at le Pouldu" (1890). This approach reflects a decorative organization of objects, emphasizing the craft and execution of the scene.
Some of Sérusier's notable works are housed in prestigious museums such as the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, including "Portrait of Paul Ranson in Nabi Costume" (1890) and "Landscape" (1912). His legacy extends beyond his own artworks; he was a key figure in the formation of the Nabis movement, and his theoretical contributions have had a lasting impact on the art world.
For collectors and experts in art and antiques, Sérusier's work represents a unique blend of post-impressionist and symbolist styles, making his pieces highly valued both for their historical significance and their aesthetic appeal. To stay updated on new product sales and auction events related to Paul Sérusier, sign up for our updates. This subscription service is exclusively focused on providing information related to Sérusier's work, ensuring you remain informed about opportunities to acquire pieces by this influential artist.
Maurice Denis, a French painter and writer, was an influential figure in the transition from impressionism to modern art. Born on November 25, 1870, in Granville, France, Denis's artistic journey began at the Académie Julian in Paris. Here, he met future collaborators like Paul Sérusier and Pierre Bonnard, with whom he later formed the Nabis group, a collective deriving its name from the Hebrew word "Nabi," meaning "Prophet".
Denis's style evolved from neoimpressionism, influenced by artists like Seurat, to a more decorative and colorful approach under the influence of Gauguin. This shift is evident in works like "Taches du soleil sur la terrace" (1890). He famously stated, "Art is no longer a visual sensation... it is a creation of our spirit," highlighting his belief in art as an idealistic expression, transcending mere imitation of nature.
Denis was also impacted by Japanese art, which influenced his compositions and styles, contributing to his unique and recognizable approach. His philosophy on art, encapsulated in his 1890 essay published in "Art et Critique," emphasized the importance of color and form in creating emotional depth, a notion that laid the groundwork for modernism. He argued that a painting's essence lies in its colors and composition, rather than its subject matter.
Throughout his career, Denis's work evolved towards a more classical approach. His involvement with the Ateliers d'Art Sacré, founded in 1919, demonstrated his interest in religious art and decoration. His notable works include "The Legend of Saint Hubert" (1897) and "The History of Music" for the Théâtre des Champs Elysées (1912-1913).
Tragically, Maurice Denis's life ended on November 13, 1943, when he was struck by a truck during the German occupation of Paris. However, his legacy endures through his contributions to modern art and symbolism, his influence on fellow artists, and his works displayed in various museums and galleries.
For collectors and art experts, Denis's work offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of modern art. His blend of symbolism, color, and form marks a significant shift in art history. To stay updated on new sales and auction events related to Maurice Denis's work, sign up for our newsletter. This subscription will keep you informed about the latest developments in the world of this remarkable artist.
Emanuel Leutze was an American and German painter of the mid-nineteenth century. He is known as a painter who worked in the historical genre and is considered a representative of the Düsseldorf School of painting.
Emanuel Leutze was born in Germany and moved to America at the age of nine. He received his art education in Philadelphia, then, returning to Germany, at the Düsseldorf Academy of Fine Arts. His most famous painting, "Washington Crossing the Delaware," was painted in his native country, with views of the Delaware River taken from Rhenish landscapes. Returning to the United States in 1859, the artist decorated the Washington Capitol with his historical paintings. His work is highly regarded in America for its patriotic orientation.
In Germany, Leutze was one of the founders of the Association of Artists "Malkasten", the Association of German Artists, headed the Union of Mutual Aid of Düsseldorf artists.
